The College of Innovation, Thammasat University (CITU), in collaboration with the International Academy of CIO (IACIO), is set to host the annual International Academy of IT Directors (International Academy of CIO (IAC)) — Thailand International CIO Summit 2024, or IACIO Annual Conference 2024. Organized under the theme ‘AI Strategic Transformation Principles and Practices for CIOs’, this gathering seeks to explore innovative perspectives on artificial intelligence (AI) for revolutionizing business across a multitude of sectors. Attendees will include global experts and researchers in information technology, who will exchange insights on employing AI to foster rapid, sustainable growth across diverse industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and transport. Key discussions will delve into issues like Thailand’s digital government ranking compared to regional and global standards, the challenges of AI integration within public and private sectors, strategies for professional networking, AI management practices, and defining the evolving role of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) in leading AI adoption within modern organizations, among others.
Prof. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Ph.D. The Rector of Thammasat University stated that this year, The College of Innovation, Thammasat University has the privilege of hosting the ‘IACIO Annual Conference 2024’ under the theme ‘AI Strategic Transformation Principles and Practices for CIOs’. Given that AI technology now plays an essential role across all sectors of society — from education, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and transport — this conference holds considerable significance. It will be the common ground for experts, academics, and IT leaders from across the globe to engage in discussions on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming business models and driving future economic growth. The event will also address the challenges and applications of AI technology within both industry and government sectors.
“At the College of Innovation, Thammasat University, our selection as the host for this year reflects our dedication to supporting and fostering sustainable AI development in Thailand. We hope that this gathering will provide an invaluable platform for participants from around the world to exchange effective strategies for adapting to and navigating technological shifts. Such collaboration will pave the way for new opportunities and sustainable business development, enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness in the global market. Ultimately, it will support the application of AI across multiple dimensions, driving innovations that align with future demands and development directions,” Prof Dr Supasawad remarked.
During the three-day IACIO Annual Conference 2024 from 17 to 19 November, the event will feature in-depth sessions on several pivotal topics, including:
- Insight into Thailand’s digital government ranking: This provides a comparative analysis with other countries, both within the region and globally. Such data will be instrumental in enhancing public sector management systems, allowing us to identify trends in digital government development and better prepare for the challenges ahead. These insights will support the integration of digital technologies to improve the efficiency of all sectors, aligning closely with the expectations and needs of a truly digital-age citizenry.
- Challenges in AI adoption across government and industry: Key issues include data security, privacy concerns, and a legal framework that has yet to fully address the oversight and regulation of AI usage. Policies are being developed to foster transparency and responsible AI implementation while equipping personnel with the necessary skills for effective technology use.
- Guidelines for Building Professional Networks: Strong professional networks are essential to enable personnel across sectors to exchange knowledge and share experiences on effectively incorporating AI into organizational practices.
“In the realm of education, Thammasat University is advancing its use of AI to elevate the institution’s standards, with a focus on personalized learning tailored to each student. This approach enables more effective and relevant learning experiences. AI assists in streamlining administrative processes, from scheduling and resource allocation to student enrolment, reducing redundant tasks, and facilitating swift assessments. Overall, AI also enhances equitable access to learning, reaching a wider range of communities and fostering inclusivity in education.”
“However, projections indicate that by 2030, Southeast Asia will rank as the world’s fourth-largest region in terms of AI-driven economic activity. The demand for AI technology across the region is expected to triple between 2027 and 2037, significantly boosting the economic value of countries in this area. The trade value associated with AI is anticipated to reach approximately 500 billion baht, presenting a pivotal opportunity for local businesses to embrace this technology and enhance their value,” Prof Dr Supasawad added.
Ms Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, added that collaboration between government, private sectors, and academic institutions is crucial to fostering effective and practical AI development in Thailand. This IACIO conference serves as a platform to clarify the direction and objectives of the nation’s AI development, providing a valuable opportunity for collective efforts. Together, these sectors can prepare the necessary infrastructure and allocate resources, including personnel, technology, and funding, to meet the demands and rapid changes of the digital age.
“This conference aims to serve as a crucial platform for fostering understanding and promoting the effective use of AI across all sectors, enabling them to navigate emerging challenges and advance sustainable development in an era of continuous digital transformation. It also provides an excellent opportunity to learn from and exchange insights with experts from numerous countries, marking a significant step towards fully harnessing AI technology for the future.”
Professor Jean-Pierre Auffret, Ph.D. President of the International Academy of CIO (IAC), added that as a global association of CIOs, encompassing academics and information management experts from over 50 countries, IACIO is dedicated to promoting and supporting the CIO perspective in transforming and implementing technology to enhance organizational efficiency in the rapidly evolving digital age. With digital technology advancing swiftly and becoming increasingly complex, organizational management now requires innovative and modern approaches to enable CIOs to effectively meet emerging challenges.
“The role of the CIO extends beyond merely overseeing an organization’s information technology; they are also responsible for shaping strategies that maximize the value and effectiveness of technology use. Recognizing the importance of equipping CIOs with essential skills, access to advanced tools, and successful case studies, IACIO is committed to providing these resources to CIOs worldwide. This support enables organizations to evolve sustainably alongside technological advancements, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and long-term growth.”
Additionally, defining the role of CIOs (Chief Information Officers) in the modern world is a key focus of this conference. We are committed to emphasizing the optimal role of CIOs in guiding AI adoption within organizations to ensure maximum benefit. This includes a strong focus on management and governance, ensuring AI is deployed with clear boundaries, transparency, and adherence to sound principles. Proper oversight in AI use will not only boost organizational efficiency but also ensure alignment with ethical standards and social responsibility.
For further information, please visit https://iacio2024.org/
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